How to cut and prune pampas grass

Pampas grass is a popular choice for landscaping due to its tall plumes and distinct texture. These plants can grow to 1.5 to 2.4 metres (5 to 8 feet) tall when they reach maturity. Depending on the location of your pampas grass, you may want to periodically cut and plume it to keep it looking its best. Pruning also encourages new growth, which can save your plants if cold temperatures damage them.

Wear gloves and a long-sleeved shirt when cutting or pruning pampas grass. The leaves have sharp edges that can cut or damage your skin.

Remove yellow or brown leaves by snipping them off with hedge clippers. If your pampas grass plant is particularly large, use a pruning saw.

Prune pampas grass plants with a lot of dead or diseased foliage in the late autumn or early spring.

Promote new growth by cutting pampas grass down within 60 cm (2 feet) of the ground before new growth starts in the spring. This is particularly helpful after cold winters.

Cut the plumes for flower arrangements in the autumn. The flowers can last throughout the winter if you hang them to dry for a couple of weeks and place them in a vase without water.

Tip

Try not to prune too many healthy leaves. Grass plants create about two-thirds of their food through leaf photosynthesis.

Tips and warnings

Try not to prune too many healthy leaves. Grass plants create about two-thirds of their food through leaf photosynthesis.